This Watch Is Still A SEIKO KILLER!

SORRY ABOUT THE AUDIO! IT ISN'T GREAT FOR THE FIRST TEN MINUTES.
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I wasn't kidding when I called it a Seiko Killer. The Swordfish is up there with the Helm Vanuatu/Khuraburi as the best divers under $300USD, and no mistake. Great specs, and I dig the looks. Weird choice on the bracelet clasp. Not a fail, but an odd decision that looks like it went untested before production. Cheers, Jody

[@NeoGee]

It just can't kill that many Seikos when it's sold out.

[@OLMmedic]

True. Thats part of the alure i am guessing

[@theannouncer5538]

Killing 100 Seikos a year😂😂

[@peterjeffery8254]

touché

[@b.2221]

I wish more people would realise that Seikos affiliate brand Orient are also a great and serious contender 👍 Tam.

[@christianobrien4465]

I think the Millions of Orient watches sold prove that people do see Orient as a prime contended.

[@petergplus6667]

If you want to send them to the end of the world for repair then yes. No service in Germany f.i.

[@ZCherish]

Wearing an Orient Ranger today, fully agree.

[@THE_Newt]

I’d love to see the Orient Mako USA II vs Zelos Swordfish!

[@THE_Newt]

Rob totally agree, love and own both!

[@RudiXeno]

I just received my Zelos Swordfish V2 Midnight Blue. I was a bit nervous about it fitting my 7.5mm wrist. Well good news. My watch came with the revised clasp scissor already installed! This is my first Zelos and I have to say that I'm stunned by the design and quality finish of this watch. Just superb!

[@elarson312]

Your shirt rocks! I’m waiting for my second Zelos swordfish to arrive as my first one has been an outstanding watch. No issues with it at all.

[@JohnBuckmaster-sw3wm]

Quite surprised to see negative comments about this watch… I received My swordfish in black sand and I absolutely love it… Mine has the revised clasp so there’s no problems there either...I have Seven Seiko watches...Four of which are divers… A bunch of other divers it cost a lot more than this Zelos...Yes it has ‘modern styling’ , But I find it a nice change of pace and a departure from The usual diver choices...Unbelievably well-made and specs are Better than my Oris, Tissot, spinnaker, and many Seiko divers...

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Hey mate! People just get triggered at the thought of anything being better than the mighty Seiko, even though many watches are..... But we know that, don't we? 😉

[@ozludo]

To be fair, most of the Swordfish variants are out of stock, or they're bronze. Bronze + more angles than an Aztec pyramid isn't to everyone's taste. I love the look of the black sand S-fish, but the black dial Orient Komasu is about $100 cheaper on super nice silicone.

[@kingjgregory]

I really want one of those on a bracelet. Just got a DJ41 blue yesterday, so I think I'm grounded for a while. Great video. Cheers!

[@stusims6567]

Great review on a beautiful watch! Thank you so much for including info on the length of the bracelet! The fact that it will reach around my 8 1/2” wrist is a big plus in my interest in purchasing one of these. I particularly like the lumed face version. All that night time visibility is also of interest, although I like the version that you got better. Decisions, decisions... 🤔

[@staggering1042]

Man these Zelos watches are perfect for me. I wish I could get one . I cant wait to have any Zelos in my collection some day. Perfect for me any day of the week That Bronze oh heck yes. Great work again Zelos. Thanks for the great reviews Jody.

[@williamrizzo1285]

I was able to get the Midnight Blue version a couple weeks ago in November 2019 and it has updated bigger clasp on the bracelet.

[@jayrothman7281]

Hi Jody, I just got mine today, I was wondering how I could remove the bracelet to put on the leather strap. I have a strap change tool put it is too big to fit in the little gap.

[@touchmylucas115]

Just received my helical blue Swordfish yesterday morning. Thrilled to finally add this one to my small but growing collection. I've got large hands, and I was a tad worried about the clasp issue, but with a 7.5in wrist, either I just have wrists big enough to get around the clasp issue or it came with the revised clasp. Not complaining either way!

[@Lmbrjk]

I picked up a teal dialed bronze copy a few weeks ago and I love it. It makes me think of a porthole on Nemo's Nautilus.

[@Starstreak170]

Can you review the Casio Oceanus line? Premium radio controlled solar watches with very nice finishing.

[@geordiebatt]

Off topic Jody but have you replaced the bezel on your Loreo sub yet? if so what size bezel insert did you get? Thanks

[@AlgorhythmKid]

They may only offer 1 years warranty, but if you asked Elshan very nicely, I'd bet money that he'd be more than happy to help you out. I see him sort people out on the group all the time.

[@BennyLlama]

I agree that the clasp could be a little larger. But it's a fabulous watch. I love mine. I'm glad I got mine before it sold out

[@albertomartin1214]

Hello When you do the lumen test, can you star to record at 00:00 to try to know how many hours the lumen lasts? Thanks

[@MrBrohoward71]

Fantastic review jody as always. I have ordered the stainless nh35 black sand model having missed out on the mk1 i made sure to get in early on this one. 1 point to note from your video i was shocked to see pretty poor printing on the minute track in the macro shot of the carbon dial model 😯

[@vencemcadams2927]

Have you checked out Aragon? I just got my first one. The Divemaster ll. Don't no much about watches, but was impressed by some reviews and it seems to be a great value!

[@firefighter387]

Hi just received my swordfish in midnight blue -2 seconds a day nh35 they have improved clasp it's still the short clasp but they have lengthened the hinge part on it no problems now to put on.

[@ajgross67]

I am watching this while wearing my bronze, meteorite dial Mako. Such a great brand!

[@honestloez]

Hello Jody, you have the same praise while reviewed Helm watches, care to give us any insight which one you prefer between Zelos and Helm?

[@briantasse5257]

Hey Jordie, I was shown a hack for tight bracelets. Spin the watch head to the palm side and slide it off. Not sure why it works but it does. I put a shark mesh band on my Zelos Helmsman II. It has an even shorter clasp and was very tight on my 7 1/2" wrist. spin the watch and it slides off with no problem.

[@bigdcoscarelli]

Thanks for the review. Just ordered one. Second time one of your reviews caused me to order a micro brand watch.

[@SirLoinOfsteak85]

I love that carbon dial! For me it's just too big though... the SKX009 is about my maximum limit, and this is just a bit too much I think. Shame as I really like the styling.

[@shaneweightman]

Love the orange dial , great video and shootout cheers Shane uk 🇬🇧

[@dbrph]

Jody it seems to me that different bronze watches(marine grade or not) patina differently, what do you think? Also how would you compare a Glycine bronze sub(which now can be had for $400 US to this Zelos bronze watch?

[@GalaxysGreatestDad]

I own the Full lumed dial version of the Swordfish and it is amazing.

[@GalaxysGreatestDad]

I have the same issue with the clasp being too short, but I love the watch.

[@bogrot69]

I picked up the Zelos Great White with the beautiful blue textured dial, more of a swirl pattern rather that a wave. It's a stunning watch for the price. It stands to reason, with Seiko's pricing creeping upwards while they still have QC issues and some nasty cost cutting habits, the love affair is ending for more and more collectors. Its apparent with some of the recent videos I've seen, Seiko needs to step up their build game.

[@rlj151]

I bought the gen 1 Swordfish last November with the blue dial/bezel. Nice watch. Glad it has the divers extension clasp as my 9 3/4 wrist is tough enough to fit. Looks like this V2 is a complete no go for me if I was going for it. Might get one of their other models though. Looking for a new watch.

[@jamesgarthur4897]

Zelos wathes have proven to be an awesome Micro brand, I have loved every purchas made from them especially the bronze models & the meteorites dials.

[@lofotling7953]

Nice review, nice watch. Unfortunately reminds me the Zelos logo at the Zurich Insurance logo, whitch has the ‚Z‘ as logo as well. So the watch looks a little like an insurance giveaway, what I dislike.

[@ConvoyGTR]

I got the Frost Swordfish today and am having major issues with the clasp. Once sized, it's such a major squeeze to get it on, to the point of either my hand is going to break or the bracelet. And once on, it's too loose like it is one link too many. edit: Zelos has since sent replacement clasp so problem resolved.

[@SoCalWatchReviews]

Fantastic review, getting one soon 😊

[@mahathir101]

Hellooo Jody, when are you reviewing the 62MAS & its homage... Been waiting for weeks now, I'm so looking forward to hear your take on these.

[@lupo1185]

I think the 'aged lume' is awesome but it puts me off, that the second-hand is still pure white. I do hope for another run next year when the budget allows.

[@newcris81]

Great job! Congratulations.

[@private464]

Great review. I am thinking of getting the forged carbon one. It seems stunning! Hopefully, I will be able to get it for $400 as you quoted. I'm interested to know HOW you think about it on your wrist now over 4 months later. Any insights you can give me, Jody, will help me decide and is appreciated. Thank you.

[@Taranisify]

Try the microadjustment on the clasp! those didnt work properly on my model, if you put them more in. Anyway a good watch imo.

[@GeorgeSayegh13]

Can you make a video with this Zelos vs Helm Khuraburi? I'm about ready for my next watch and I was sold on the helm but this looks promising.

[@kissmylilpiggy]

Don't worry I also have an oddly broader fist to wrist ratio a bit like Mjölnir and I doubt I could get a Zelos on at all without some serious scuffs and scrapes along the way, I'd have to invest in a few suitable rubber straps.

[@ohmadon]

Damnit Jody.... saw this video and had to immediately order a white dial swordfish...

[@ronsparks1001]

I have a Mako and a bronze Hammerhead. Love their watches.

[@johntriolo9957]

Nice video. Patiently waiting for your Phoibos update. tickity tick...

[@TedCornish]

I'd love to own that stunning timepiece. Gorgeous

[@AP_Thailand]

Interesting review and nice watches. The case is looking a little too bulky for my own taste, feeling probably increased by its many angles, but the dials are great !

[@keiths5931]

Yeah this thing is an amazing watch. Just got it today, had it sized, and its gorgeous and seems tough. Only problem is that if you want the ETA movement, the price gets just under a lot of good swiss watches with the same features. Ill spend the extra $50 on the Swiss. If the watch is trully a 300m watch, its a league up from Seikos in its price range. The thing with the bracelet being a tough squeeze to get over your hand is accurate though. You might have to squeeze and push back and forth to get it on. It takes like 5-10 seconds if it will go over so its not a deal breaker, but it will be if you just cant get it over your hand. Be wary of that.

[@sabethealthandweightloss2696]

Despite my earlier comment, I pre-ordered two of these after watching your review, a midnight blue one for my son and a black/gold one for me. Thanks for encouraging my addiction!

[@mooselester9277]

Just saw on Zelos website they addressed the "short clasp" issue

[@CanadianBeachcomber]

Two thumbs up for the forged carbon retro dial. Good review. Sadly, it’s sold out.

[@PulledPurk]

Mine just arrived. Its waiting at home for me. I'll let you know if its hard to get on.

[@adamdavis3987]

Would be awesome if you start to use the "Community" section a little bit as it would be great to engage in some conversations etc. There are some pieces I'd love to see you review for example that are currently on sale. So makes me wonder best way to discuss with you etc etc :D

[@HRM.H]

I just bought the new Zelos Hammerhead 3 instead of a Seiko Sumo ! Can't be more hyped. I went with the crimson red dial and bought my father a burned orange one !

[@davidgluskie3343]

I wish I’d been able to get a swordfish particularly a bronze meteorite with the eta but the new mako v3 has a Miyota 9015 and that’s not a cheap movt either so I’m fairly happy

[@RavenWindrunner]

That carbon dial is awesome. The Seiko movement variants seem to be a great value.

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Yes mate, for $299 there isn't much that can touch them IMHO. Up there with Helm. 👍

[@PulledPurk]

Just got mine and removed necessary amount of links. It's very difficult to put on. It's quite a bit easier if while I'm putting it on, I have the watch on the palm side of my hand, and then spin it around after it's slipped on.

[@Ellienollie]

gorgeous watch. UGH i want one. WIsh they made a model that was slim like a oris diver 65...

[@ryan_bitzer]

15:07 I LOOOOVE that watch and strap combo!!!

[@storm3016]

Great review! Don't they regulate these at Zelos though? Ime the NH35/36/4R can be much more accurate. Too bad they dropped the diver-extension on the clasp but it was a bit too bulky I guess. Do you get to keep all 3 watches btw, or did they let you pick one or picked one for you? Cheers from the Netherlands :)

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Yes, those two Zelos with the Seiko movements were disappointing. I generally find that 20% of those NH35 are spot on, 60% are within +/- 10 secs per day, and 20% are outside that, so I guess I got double unlucky! Cheers!

[@christophjkugler]

your t-shirt choice never disappoint. GOSOX ;)

[@striker8380]

Another good video Jody. Unfortunately not for me. Too angular, really dislike the links on the bracelet, although on a positive note I do like some of the dial options.

[@denniskwok7613]

The clasp looks more like the Transformers Autobot insignia, than a Dr Who Cyberman.

[@FRGMNTD]

This is the third video of yours that I’ve watched today. Looking to pick up a watch for my graduation in June. What do you think of the Steinhart Ocean 500 Premium?

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Go for it mate! I haven't reviewed one, but they are well regarded. And congratulations!

[@FRGMNTD]

Just One More Watch thanks, man. Keep up the exceptional work.

[@stephenblues7182]

Sold out !!... do you still get the Horween strap with the meteorite ?

[@simlowsb]

What movment is it using?

[@richl9049]

Hi Jody! Super timely video and my V2 sand dial Swordfish arrives on Tuesday! Love the review and I am now almost wondering if I should have gone for the carbon. Oh well, at the time I just didn't want to drop the extra $100. Anyways, I also have a 7 inch wrist so I am curious now to see if I have the same clasp issues... Cheers! Thanks, Rich.

[@richl9049]

Update: I just received my V2 Swordfish today (a day early). The watch looked great and I was super pumped until I wound the watch a bit, set the time, and then noticed that it sounds like the rotor is basically flopping around in the case (just a horrible sound, not normal). 😕 I just emailed Zelos, and hoping they can help me. What a pain to have to return/exchange this from the U.S. My first experience here with Zelos, hoping they make this right. Jody - I also have a 7 inch wrist and anticipate I am going to have the same issues as you with the new scissor style enclosure on the clasp. I did not remove any of the wrapping since this is going back, but it seems it will be tight. I also mentioned this in the email to them. Thanks, Rich.

[@richl9049]

Another update: Elshan promptly reached out to me regarding my issues and is going above and beyond to make things right. Just super customer service. I'll update this thread once I receive my exchange.

[@tornagawn]

2 video’s at once? Mr Jody he crazy (season 2 episode 2)

[@MrTp73]

They are all sold out on their website!

[@gregalonzo747]

I know that you love like, just curious, what are your thoughts on tritium?

[@dravur]

Zelos has a fix for the clasp issue and are sending out a new clasp to buyers.

[@_PGleo86]

Very glad I ordered my carbon model before they sold out!

[@luislaurencio]

Bro the first thing i notice was the problem with the clasp. I am having to use it a little lose.

[@danemain7859]

Best diver, around 39mm, under 500 dollars US? I'm thinking skx013, but I'm interested in your opinion. Thanks, great channel.

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Steinhart Ocean One 39mm. Go for a colour or a vintage looking one. 👌

[@flymorenow]

Looks like a great value, but does it have to be so thick, is that an appeal to some? Orients aren't as thick so plus one for them. Great video Jody!

[@D00MTR33]

I love carbon fiber as a knife nut and that carbon fiber dial is exactly what I want. Can't justify the $500 that they sell for right now so I got a Phoibos Proteus with a CF dial and its great as well. Maybe later I can get one.

[@reedpeterson719]

My skx013 killed all desire to buy any automatic watches again, my daily wear is an old seiko quartz and it keeps great time. Rant over!

[@Zeratsu]

so what's the issue?

[@mcameron6031]

honestly the SKX line has a terrible power reserve, which is a pain. unless i make a concerted effort to wind it up, it often goes dead over night......the SKX really isnt a good "first watch"....mainly its due to the older movement.....many of the newer seikos, with more modern movements are much better.

[@jarodstevens2710]

Great video Jody just watched this one and the Deathmatch I'll take my PADI Samurai but that being said you should check out the new bronze eagle ray from phoibos, 🤟

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Review coming soon mate!

[@SecondHourWatches]

You went deep with this one, sir. They're all impressive watches and what a value proposition. I hope my freakishly large hands can slip through that open bracelet

[@kootch88]

Love the shirt!

[@arunprasadvenkatasubramani4097]

The carbon dial definitely looks very interesting. On being a seiko killer, it is now definitely offering a lot of value as seiko has suddenly decided to no more be the value player they used to be. I recently got my mako v2 bronze green, so won't be looking to get this one.

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Nice! I had a mako 1 in bronze and loved it. The big crown of the 2 will be a positive upgrade, for sure.

[@Robespierres_Ghost]

My 3rd swordfish is on the way. So much value for $299.

[@claytonberg721]

I have the black sand bronze model. What I don't like are the hands. The minute hand in particular is too indistinct, you really have to watch when you are setting it. That's never an issue with seiko hands. Bezel action is as you said excellent. As good if not better than grand seiko. The only watch that I have that is better is my SMPc. The sapphire is obviously better than hardlex, but it is nowhere near as nice as an aftermarket DLW crystal. A DLW crystal is $70 CAD so it is a superior product. All in all, I like it, I don't know if I love it though. It might be that I'll flip it one day. I do like my own modded seiko's more.

[@DrB187]

Zelos vs Helm? Which one do you think is better?

[@davidgluskie3343]

I just picked up a full lumed ‘frost’ makov3 plus a bracelet I had to purchase the bracelet as extra

[@shanewright2772]

Jody - "Where am I going to start this video?" Maria Rainer - "Let's start at the beginning. That's a very good place to start" Once again, The Sound of Music has shown us the way forward.

[@ticktalk8055]

What’s your opinion on micro brands such as Xeric and their quality?

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Xeric review coming soon!!!

[@ticktalk8055]

I just got the Soloscope SQ automatic in black.! It should be here on Monday. Very excited!

[@steven3379]

I really like the design of these watches, I currently have a Zelos Great White 1000m Bronze Diver, I may get another one in the future just waiting to see what he comes up with! 👍👍

[@jeremylee9354]

I want the carbon dial now. I love the look.

[@marblesthemechanic9430]

I would love to see what you think about an Eddifice

[@scarfobaggio4463]

heyy man.. u r Pepsi wall clock is damn nice.. pls share any info

[@mastermachetier5594]

Wow I want to see the bronze on the horween

[@tantu2395]

I didn't watched this video before, but after one year Zelos become a brand that gets more interesting for consumer, and I think they will make a big waves ahead in coming years.

[@g3ultra]

Being an old school skater from the 70s, I love that "Z-flex" logo 😄

[@73seewerner]

YES. glad i'm not alone. :)

[@PT111111]

Why would you back that Axios on Kickstarter when you can buy one of these Zelos instead?

[@grogthegrolie]

I agree, particularly since the Axios is just another copycat design. However, If you want a Swiss Sellita movement, like the Axios, check out the Ergon Maelstrom (another Zelos sister company) for only $380 USD. Only comes in bronze at this time, though, but awesome style and value for the sheckels.

[@PT111111]

@@grogthegrolie I don't really care about the movement to be honest. I only use it to compare features and work out which one is the better value.

[@livedadyt10]

Do you have any Green Bay Packers shirts? Nice watch, btw.

[@timmcdonald5335]

I agree Jodie it is a great value watch however I think the issue of availability is a problem. It is frustrating for a consumer to like a watch only to find that it is sold out. One reason people choose a Seiko is because they can get one any day of the week. I think this is an issue for micro brands.

[@timothythomas1626]

Must be evening time over in Sydney

[@OLMmedic]

I watch alot of your vids, so i may as well subscribe, lol. So i did!!!

[@SengLeeKoh]

As unverified dive watches, the prices are a little steep, especially the ones with eta movements where value plummets exponentially.

[@Billeh556]

Seng Lee Koh perfect example of somebody saying some bullshit like he has a clue what he’s talking about. Do you care to share with me at the sub $500 price point a BETTER movement than an ETA?! There are comparable, at BEST. Lol you’re completely backwards.

[@SengLeeKoh]

Billeh, there is a very good reason Seiko calls their watches a Divers 200. These watches, like many micro-brands, are falsely labeled. You are over-paying for features that are most probably anecdotally proven. But there are micro-brands with the same (or better?) ETA movements 300-400 that do not label themselves as "dive watches". Good day.

[@JuanCheeto]

@@SengLeeKoh like what

[@Billeh556]

Seng Lee Koh you’re a fkn moron dude. Most of these well known micros test them to their WR rating, not certified diver sure. Take Tudor in their first generation black bays using eta movements, all regulated to COSC specifications but they didn’t get it COSC certified. Doesn’t mean it didn’t perform as such, just like the WR rating you speak of. And, ETA movements at a $400 price range is much better than most other micros which will typically use Seiko NH35 movements. ETA and Miyota 9015 are more expensive and are more common in $600+ watches. Please educate yourself before saying something completely fkn stupid.

[@SengLeeKoh]

The overpressure test is done for a sample, (but how many to prove against the null hypothesis?) whereas every dive-rated watch is supposedly tested according to ISO. (Anecdotal here, but these chinese microbrands, how "well" do they perform the test? ) And we are talking dive watches here? And comparing an established brand with a more reputation to protect against a microbrand that may not exist in ten years? I'm done with you.